NEVER BITE THE HAND THAT FEEDS YOU
I've yet to come across any diamond prospectors moaning about the size of their claims, but all too often I come across literary agents whining about the depth of their slush piles. These same agents tend to use this as an excuse to justify a no response equals no interest policy. In a technological age, where a system can be programmed to send out a form rejection, this smacks of arrogance and bad manners. It also seems a bit short sighted to me as it tends to cause offence and make authors reluctant to query said agents with any future projects.
Although I've only ever queried one title, I have a second nearing completion and a third part written. Add to this other work I have plotted and several more ideas buzzing around in my head I, like so many unpublished authors, possess quite a sizeable claim to be mined for hidden gems.
A couple of days ago I received a personalised rejection from an agent who said:
"This was a difficult decision as I was really impressed with your submission. The writing is engaging, the idea is appealing and you write with real energy and imagination. However, while there was a lot I enjoyed about your submission, ultimately, I did not feel convinced I could find a publisher for it and therefore don't feel able to offer representation for this project. I am sorry not to be writing with better news. If you don't place this manuscript with a publisher, I would be keen to read anything you write in the future."
Seems fair enough to me. Agents should only take on a new client if they can see a market for their work, no matter how much they might like it.
Sooner or later my second novel will be ready to send out on submission and this particular agent will be given first refusal in recognition of their gracious response.
Although I've only ever queried one title, I have a second nearing completion and a third part written. Add to this other work I have plotted and several more ideas buzzing around in my head I, like so many unpublished authors, possess quite a sizeable claim to be mined for hidden gems.
A couple of days ago I received a personalised rejection from an agent who said:
"This was a difficult decision as I was really impressed with your submission. The writing is engaging, the idea is appealing and you write with real energy and imagination. However, while there was a lot I enjoyed about your submission, ultimately, I did not feel convinced I could find a publisher for it and therefore don't feel able to offer representation for this project. I am sorry not to be writing with better news. If you don't place this manuscript with a publisher, I would be keen to read anything you write in the future."
Seems fair enough to me. Agents should only take on a new client if they can see a market for their work, no matter how much they might like it.
Sooner or later my second novel will be ready to send out on submission and this particular agent will be given first refusal in recognition of their gracious response.
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